Frankincense, the sap of the Boswellia tree, when burnt, produces a unique and powerful aroma. Much more than that it creates an other-worldly atmosphere. It is difficult to describe, but a few words that may help are “peaceful”, “cleansing”, and “sacred”. It is powerful stuff. So, it is no surprise that humans have used it ceremonially since ancient times.
It was highly prized by the ancient Egyptians, who used it in a variety of rituals for both the living and the dead. In the Western world, most people recognise it as one of the gifts given to the baby Jesus by the three wise men (or magi...